Open enrollment for ACA insurance ends March 31

Next sign-up period does not begin till November

For those who want to purchase a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace this year, there's only a few weeks left before the open enrollment period ends March 31. Those who wish to get coverage on the marketplace must do so before then, or wait until the next open enrollment period begins in November.

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Posted Feb. 23, 2014 at 2:00 AM

Posted Feb. 23, 2014 at 2:00 AM

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For those who want to purchase a health insurance plan through the Health Insurance Marketplace this year, there's only a few weeks left before the open enrollment period ends March 31. Those who wish to get coverage on the marketplace must do so before then, or wait until the next open enrollment period begins in November.

Under the health care reform law, people are required to have health insurance for the majority of the year or risk being charged a penalty. One way to avoid this penalty is by enrolling in a plan offered through the Health Insurance Marketplace before March 31.

New Hampshire residents can also learn if they are eligible for subsidies that will lower the costs of premiums and out-of-pocket medical costs by shopping on the marketplace. These subsidies are based on the number of people in a family who need insurance and that individual's or family's income.

Subsidies are only available if the plan was purchased through the Health Insurance Marketplace.

Those in New Hampshire who have delayed buying insurance should know there are a number of places they can find help enrolling in a plan. Covering New Hampshire has set up events throughout the state where certified assisters are available to answer questions and guide people through the enrollment process. These events are being held every day between now and March 31. A list of events is available at CoveringNH.org.

People can find more information about plans available to New Hampshire residents, including price estimates, at www.CoveringNH.org or by going to www.HealthCare.gov. There are also people available to answer questions through the federal Health Care Hotline at (800) 318-2596 or TTY at (855) 889-4325.

Covering New Hampshire is the official, free resource for Granite Staters to learn about the Health Insurance Marketplace and the new, affordable health insurance plans that are now available. Covering New Hampshire aims to help people understand the new health care law and assist in connecting people with Health Insurance Marketplace. The organization also connects people with in-person assisters who will help them enroll and with organizations that can help them get coverage.